Blog Layout

5 Necessary Tools and Materials for DIY Tile Installation

Bader Obeid • Apr 29, 2016

Tile is a popular flooring choice for homeowners looking to renovate, and with good reason. It’s durable, attractive, easy to care for, and there are many different styles to choose from. With the right tools and know-how, you can even install tile flooring yourself. The staff at CMA Flooring, a leading provider of flooring in Carrollton, has put together a list of 5 important tools and materials you’ll need to take on this type of project.

1. Tile Spacers

If you want to have a professional looking, evenly laid tile floor, tile spacers are essential. Spacers are little plastic parts in the shape of an X, and they come in different sizes depending on how wide you want your grout lines to be. You place them in between the corners of each tile after you lay the tile on top of the mortar. This ensures the grout lines between tiles are the same width for the entire floor.

2. Tile Cutter or Wet Saw

As you approach walls, doors, and other obstructions, you will need to cut tile to fit uneven spaces. For thin tile or small tiling jobs, a manual cutter may be adequate. However, if you need to cut a large amount of tile or want your cuts to be more precise, you will want a wet saw to make the job easier. If you need to make curved cuts, get a pair of tile nippers.

3. Mortar

Although grout seals the joints between tiles, the tiles are actually held onto the floor with a different kind of adhesive, often polymer-modified thin-set mortar. You mix the mortar with water and apply it to the subfloor with a grooved trowel before laying the tiles down.

4. Rubber Grout Float

This tool is necessary for getting the grout into the spaces between tiles. To apply grout, push it into the joints with the float, first in the direction of the joints and then diagonally across them to make sure they are full. You will also need a wet sponge to scrub excess grout off the tiles after application.

5. Silicone Grout Sealer

After the grout has cured, you will need to seal the joints between the tile and the wall. For a high-quality seal, use silicone grout sealer. This will fill up any gaps at the edges of your tile job and ensure your new floor is completely watertight.


To learn more about DIY tile installation, get in touch with the flooring and design experts at CMA Flooring in Carrollton. We offer many different styles of tile, including ceramic, porcelain, slate, stone, and custom limestone floor. Stop by our showroom or give us a call today at 972-418-6606.

Why Choose Us?

Our experts work closely with customers to achieve the looks that fit their lifestyle without sacrificing quality or value. We offer:
View All Products
Complimentary in-home estimates
In-house sample & display making
Large stock of materials
Competitive pricing for major brands
Flexible work hours with trained staff
Highly skilled and trained installation teams

More Topics & Ideas

floor
By Bader Obeid 24 Mar, 2017
Changing out the flooring in your home can be pricey. However, certain materials might be a little easier on your budget without sacrificing quality.
home design trends
By Bader Obeid 10 Mar, 2017
Spring is just around the corner, which means you may want to change up the design of your home to match the season. These ideas will get you started.
dog on fence
By Bader Obeid 24 Feb, 2017
If you leave your dog in the front or back yard, you'll definitely need some type of fencing. These 5 materials offer the protection you're looking for.
plumbing
By Bader Obeid 17 Feb, 2017
When making plumbing renovations in your home, you may need to inform your insurance. Here are a few reasons to tell them about the changes you make.
rustic
By Bader Obeid 10 Feb, 2017
If you're going for a rustic look in your home, there are certain flooring types you should consider. The 4 options on this list may be just what you need.
deck
By Bader Obeid 03 Feb, 2017
Adding a deck to your backyard gives you a good excuse to relax outdoors more often. If doing this project yourself, take a look at the following tips.
wood
By Bader Obeid 27 Jan, 2017
If you're considering new wood flooring for your home, reclaimed wood is an attractive alternative. This type of flooring offers many great advantages.
garden
By Bader Obeid 20 Jan, 2017
One of the most important features of a home is the yard, and turning this area into an entertainment space can make it even more useful and enjoyable.
kitchen
By Bader Obeid 13 Jan, 2017
Kitchen renovations can be tricky, even more so when the space is on the smaller side. Use these tips to transform your kitchen into something gorgeous.
cabinet
By Bader Obeid 06 Jan, 2017
In theory, installing shelves is a simple project any homeowner can take on. However, many make significant mistakes that can cause problems down the line.
More Posts
Share by: